Skip the Butterball hotline this year and follow our easy instructions for preparing the turkey of your dreams.
Place the turkey, breast side up, on a rimmed baking tray or cookie sheet.
(The tray catches errant turkey juices and makes post-prep cleanup a breeze.)
Caitlin-Marie Miner Ong
Lower the turkey and repeat with the other side.
This step makes for more even roasting and keeps the wingtips from burning.
Tie the Drumsticks Together
Cut a piece of kitchen twine about 8 inches long.
Caitlin-Marie Miner Ong
This makes for a tidy-looking turkey.
(Don’t worry if you don’t have a roasting pan:There are alternatives.)
If one of the wings comes untucked, just tuck it back under the bird.
Caitlin-Marie Miner Ong
Frequently Asked Questions
Avoid a dry turkey by brining itfor several hours or a day in advance.
The salt water will penetrate into the turkey meat and help make it flavorful and moist.
The short answer: Don’t!
Caitlin-Marie Miner Ong
(This will take at least a few hours, and up to 12 hours.)
you’re free to also try the microwave, if your turkey can squeeze in!
USDA.To wash or not to wash…your turkey?Published 2013.
USDA.How temperatures affect food.